Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe! These delightful taquitos are juicy, creamy, and wrapped in a perfectly crisp shell. They are ideal for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Enjoy a fuss-free, flavorful feast that skips the frying pan and satisfies your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for cooks of any skill level.
• Flavorful Filling: A blend of spices, cheese, and chicken creates a deliciously creamy filling that everyone will love.
• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying makes these taquitos a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Snacks: Serve them as appetizers, party snacks, or even a main dish – they fit any occasion!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out cheeses for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process seamless, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or baking mat
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Mixing spoon
• Forks for shredding chicken

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface to hold your taquitos while they bake evenly.
• Parchment paper or baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy after baking.
• Mixing spoon: Ensures all ingredients are well combined for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos! Juicy, creamy, and wrapped in a perfectly crisp shell – enjoy a fuss-free, flavorful feast that skips the frying pan.

For the Chicken

• 3 large chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese
• 3 tbsp sour cream
• 1/3 cup salsa
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp coriander
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 green onions (minced)
• 2 tbsp cilantro (minced)
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

For Assembling

• 16-18 small flour tortillas

For Serving

• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp cilantro (minced)
• 1/2 lime (juiced)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• Mix together the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and salt.
• Drizzle olive oil on chicken breasts. Sprinkle some spice mix on both sides.
• Place chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

• Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius).
• Remove from oven and shred using two forks. Set aside to cool.

Step 4: Prepare for Taquitos

Turn the oven up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). Line another baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat.

Step 5: Mix Filling Ingredients

• Place cream cheese in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 20-30 seconds until soft.
• Add sour cream, salsa, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, coriander, salt, green onion, cilantro, lime juice, cheeses, and shredded chicken. Mix thoroughly.

Step 6: Assemble Taquitos

• Add a few tablespoons of filling to the lower edge of each tortilla. Leave space at both ends.
• Roll it up tightly and place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all ingredients are used.

Step 7: Bake Taquitos

Place in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Allow cooling for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos are fantastic on their own, but they can be paired with a variety of sides and toppings to elevate your meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your taquito experience.

Topping Ideas

• Sour Cream: A classic accompaniment that adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Guacamole: Fresh and creamy, guacamole provides a delicious contrast to the crispy taquitos.
• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for an extra kick, whether it’s mild or spicy.
• Shredded Lettuce: Adds a fresh crunch and makes for a lighter option.
• Chopped Tomatoes: Brighten up your dish with juicy tomatoes for added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the taquitos perfectly.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and richness to your meal.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad brings sweetness and texture to the plate.

Best Side Dishes for Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos can make for a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs perfectly with crispy taquitos.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, cilantro, lime, and cheese brings freshness and crunch.
3. Black Bean Salad: A protein-packed salad that adds a hearty touch with diced bell peppers and onions.
4. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa gives a zesty kick that enhances every bite of taquito.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime brightens up the plate.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until golden provide a healthy contrast to the crispy taquitos.
7. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer or side.

With these suggestions, you can create a delightful spread around your Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos that will impress family and friends alike!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Overfilling the tortillas: Adding too much filling can cause the taquitos to burst while baking. Keep the filling amount moderate to ensure they roll easily and stay intact.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly can lead to bland taquitos. Always apply spices evenly for full flavor in every bite.

• Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can prevent the tortillas from crisping up nicely. Always preheat your oven before placing the taquitos inside.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold cream cheese or sour cream can make mixing difficult. Let these ingredients soften at room temperature for easier mixing.

• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the taquitos right after baking can result in a messy filling. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving for better structure.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

• Place cooled taquitos in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

• Microwave: Place taquitos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook taquitos for about 3-4 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos?

Serve these taquitos with your favorite dips like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra flavor boost.

Can I customize the filling in this Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables or switch out cheeses based on your preference.

How do I make Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos healthier?

Use whole wheat tortillas and reduce cheese or sour cream amounts for a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Can I prepare these Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

Oven Baked Chicken Taquitos offer a deliciously versatile meal that everyone will love. They are perfect for gatherings or simple weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize your fillings with different spices or veggies, making them truly your own!